Symptoms Of Swine Flu (H1N1 Influenza)

The clinical manifestations of swine flu are similar to any other flu. The symptoms include:

• Fever (100°F or greater)
• Chills
• Runny or blocked nose
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Watery and redness of eyes
• Fatigue
• Body aches
• Joint pains
• Headache
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid breaths
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Rare symptoms include:

• Conjunctivitis
• Parotitis in toddlers (inflammation of the parotid salivary gland)

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Differences and Similarities Between Swine Flu and the Common Cold

Swine flu and the common cold are both contagious respiratory tract illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. They have many similarities, making it difficult to distinguish between them. Some of the most common similarities and differences include:

1. Symptoms
   • Similarity: The symptoms of cold and flu are very similar at the onset, including a runny nose, headache, fatigue, and difficulty in breathing.
   • Difference: Cold symptoms are usually milder than those of swine flu and generally do not result in serious health problems.
2. Cause
   • Similarity: Both cold and influenza are caused by viruses.
   • Difference: Swine flu is caused by the H1N1 influenza virus, while the common cold can be caused by several other viruses, including rhinoviruses, parainfluenza, and seasonal coronaviruses.
3. Incubation Period
   • Similarity: Both diseases are highly contagious and have an incubation period of at least 1 day before symptoms appear.
   • Difference: The incubation period for influenza is usually 1-4 days, while it is 1-7 days for colds.
4. Duration of Illness
   • Similarity: Both swine flu and the common cold cause respiratory tract illnesses lasting from 4 days to two weeks.
   • Difference: A cold typically lasts about 7 to 10 days, but it can extend up to two weeks depending on the viral strain. Swine flu's duration varies from about 5 days to two weeks, with an average of 8 days.
5. Risk Factors
   • Similarity: Both have similar risk factors; younger children, older adults, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk.
   • Difference: Individuals who do not receive the swine flu vaccine are more likely to contract the flu virus, while there is no vaccination to prevent the common cold.

Are you confused if it is a common cold or swine flu? Know if your cold is more than just a common cold. Read this.

Differences and Similarities Between Swine Flu and COVID-19

Swine flu and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory infections but are caused by different viruses. COVID-19 is caused by a coronavirus (first identified in 2019), whereas swine flu is caused by the H1N1 virus. They share similarities yet differ in several aspects:

1. Duration of Illness
   • Similarity: It takes an average of two days for an infected person to start experiencing symptoms.
   • Difference: COVID-19 may take longer for symptoms to appear, while flu symptoms begin between 1-4 days.
2. Mode of Spread
   • Similarity: Both COVID-19 and swine flu can spread from person to person through close contact, typically within about 6 feet, via droplets from sneezing, coughing, or talking.
   • Difference: COVID-19 is generally more contagious than the swine flu virus.
3. Risk Factors
   • Similarity: Older adults, individuals with certain underlying medical conditions, pregnant women, and children are at higher risk for both COVID-19 and swine flu.
   • Difference: COVID-19 can cause more severe illnesses in some individuals, resulting in hospitalization and death, even among healthy individuals.
4. Complications
   • Similarity: Respiratory complications can occur in patients infected with both swine flu and COVID-19.
   • Difference: Most people with swine flu recover on their own within a few days to two weeks, whereas complications from COVID-19 can persist even after recovery (long COVID syndrome).

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Differences and Similarities Between Swine Flu and Seasonal Influenza

Regular flu or influenza may be caused by RNA viruses belonging to the family Orthomyxoviridae. Swine flu is caused by a family of viruses that affect pigs. Some similarities and differences include:

1. Cause
   • Similarity: Both swine flu and influenza are caused by viruses.
   • Difference: Influenza viruses A, B, and C are responsible for seasonal flu, while swine flu is caused by subtypes of the H1N1 virus.
2. Symptoms
   • Similarity: Both present with similar symptoms, including fever, chills, sore throat, body ache, headache, coughing, and fatigue.
   • Difference: Some individuals with swine flu may experience gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea or diarrhea, which is thought to differentiate it from seasonal flu.
3. Incubation Period
   • Similarity: Symptoms for both begin approximately two days after contracting the virus.
   • Difference: The known incubation period for H1N1 swine flu ranges from 1 to 4 days, but may be as long as 7 days for some individuals. In contrast, seasonal flu symptoms typically begin about two days after infection but can range from 1-4 days.
4. Mode of Transmission
   • Similarity: Both spread through respiratory droplets from an infected person.
   • Difference: Swine flu is transmitted through larger droplets, and transmission can occur from infected animals to humans.

Learn more about influenza (seasonal flu). Read Here.

Causes Of Swine Flu (H1N1 Influenza)

H1N1 swine influenza is a common respiratory infection in pigs worldwide, hence the name "swine flu." Individuals in close proximity to pigs may develop swine flu, known as zoonotic swine flu. The H1N1 swine influenza viruses have the potential to infect humans if the virus's ability to stimulate an immune response changes.

Influenza A pandemics, such as the one in 2009, occurred due to person-to-person transmission through airborne droplets, and potentially through human contact with inanimate objects contaminated with the virus, which can be transferred to the eyes or nose.

There are a number of factors that can increase your risk of contracting swine flu. They include:

• Individuals above 65 years of age
• Children below 5 years of age
• People with chronic diseases such as:
• Diabetes
• Chronic pulmonary conditions including asthma
• Congestive cardiac failure
• Kidney failure
• Liver failure
• Blood abnormalities including sickle cell disease
• Neurologic conditions
• Neuromuscular disorders
• Pregnant women
• Teens receiving long-term aspirin therapy
• Immunocompromised individuals
• People on medications for HIV

A physical exam is conducted to assess symptoms of H1N1. Various tests are utilized to diagnose influenza; however, not everyone with flu symptoms requires testing. A confirmed diagnosis of swine flu necessitates laboratory testing of a respiratory sample, typically obtained through a simple nose and throat swab. The tests include:

• Real-time PCR: This test detects seasonal influenza A, B, H1, H3, and avian H5 serotypes. Samples are collected from the throat and nose of the suspected individual, providing an accurate and rapid diagnosis of swine flu.
• Nucleotide sequencing: This general laboratory technique determines the exact sequence of nucleotides, or bases, in a DNA molecule. It is instrumental in identifying the H1N1 strain.
• Phylogenetic analysis: This test isolates the gene from pigs and is used to determine the specific strain of swine flu.

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Preventive measures for swine influenza are based on understanding how the disease is transmitted. These measures include:

1. Prevention of Pig-to-Human Transmission

The transmission between pigs and humans mainly occurs in swine farms where farmers are in close contact with live pigs. Measures to prevent this include:

• Vaccines for swine to prevent their infection.
• Avoiding smoking near infected animals.
• Wearing gloves while handling pigs.

2. Prevention of Human-to-Human Transmission

This virus is not transmitted through food. In humans, it is most contagious during the first 5 days of illness; however, children can remain contagious for up to 10 days. Recommendations to prevent the spread of the virus among humans include:

• Take Quarantine Seriously: Close contacts of suspected, probable, and confirmed swine cases are advised to remain at home and avoid traveling for at least 7 days. In case of any symptoms, contacts should undergo a prompt test for H1N1 influenza and consult a physician.
• Follow Cough and Hand Hygiene:
  • Hands must be frequently washed with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Infected persons should cover their nose and mouth with a single-use tissue while coughing or sneezing.
  • Used tissues must be disposed of immediately.
  • Healthcare workers involved in the direct care of patients with confirmed or suspected swine influenza should use gowns, eye protection, gloves, and disposable N95 respirators.
• Give Importance to Chemo-Prophylaxis: Antiviral medicines can be used for prophylaxis in contacts with a high risk for complications and healthcare personnel. Oseltamivir is given once a day until 10 days after the individual’s last contact with the patient and can be administered for a maximum of 6 weeks.
• Get Vaccinated: WHO recommends vaccination for all healthcare staff who come into contact with suspected or confirmed swine flu cases (physicians, nurses, paramedical, and ambulance staff). The vaccine against influenza A/H1N1 should be taken yearly, and the immune response takes about 2-3 weeks to develop after vaccination.
• Other General Measures:
  • Early self-isolation of those feeling unwell or exhibiting symptoms.
  • Avoid close contact with sick people.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
  • Disinfect surfaces that have come in contact with infected persons.
  • Cook red meat at 160°F (70°C) to kill the virus.
  • Disinfect used tissues before discarding them.

Keep This in Mind!

Children and teenagers recovering from flu-like symptoms should never take aspirin due to the risk of Reye syndrome, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition.

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Treatment Of Swine Flu (H1N1 Influenza)

The treatment is primarily supportive care for mild to moderate cases. Depending on the severity, the treatment options include the following:

1. Supportive Measures

Swine flu requires supportive management, with or without antiviral medications. These include:

• Bed rest
• Staying hydrated
• Electrolytes
• Administration of intravenous fluids in severe cases
• Painkillers and antipyretics (such as paracetamol and ibuprofen) to manage pain and fever
• Broad-spectrum antibiotics (such as cefuroxime, cefotaxime, clarithromycin, and erythromycin) to treat or prevent secondary bacterial pneumonia
• Oxygen therapy in cases of severe persistent hypoxia (decreased oxygen)

Note: Corticosteroids may be used for the management of septic shock.

2. Antiviral Therapy

Your doctor may prescribe antiviral drugs to reduce the severity of symptoms and lower the risk of complications. Examples of antiviral medications used to treat swine flu include:

• Oseltamivir
• Zanamivir
• Peramivir

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3. Management in Pigs

Though swine influenza isn’t deadly to pigs, little treatment beyond rest and supportive care may be required. Vaccination and animal management techniques with antibiotics are used to prevent bacterial pneumonia and other secondary infections in animals weakened by the influenza virus.

Like any other flu, swine flu can be managed at home by taking adequate rest, getting enough sleep, staying well-hydrated, and managing fever and body aches with painkillers and antipyretics. Additionally, there are certain home remedies that can help alleviate symptoms:

• Turmeric (Haldi): Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, adding a pinch of turmeric to a glass of warm milk and drinking it every night can help your body fight the swine flu infection.
• Garlic (Lahsun): Studies show that garlic has anti-viral properties, improves immunity, and is rich in antioxidants. Swallow 2 garlic pods with warm water on an empty stomach every morning to reap the benefits. Individuals on blood thinners should limit garlic consumption.
• Basil (Tulsi): Research suggests that tulsi is a major herb used for treating influenza-like diseases. Eating tulsi leaves can help clear infections in the throat and lungs while boosting immunity.
• Indian Gooseberry (Amla): Rich in vitamin C, amla is known for its immune-boosting properties. You can eat the whole fruit or drink its juice to help keep infections at bay.
• Ginseng: Studies demonstrate that oral administration of ginseng extract can protect against the H1N1 influenza virus. Drinking a cup of ginseng tea daily may be beneficial for individuals with swine flu. Those on blood thinners should avoid ginseng due to the risk of bleeding.
• Olive (Zaitoon) Leaves: These leaves are rich in properties that can help combat swine flu symptoms such as nausea, chills, fever, and headaches. Regular consumption of this herb can help keep swine flu at bay.
• Aloe Vera: Aloe vera not only enhances the immune system but also possesses anti-inflammatory properties. It can help fight infections and alleviate swine flu symptoms such as joint pain.
• Giloy: This herbaceous plant has been used in Ayurveda to treat various disorders. Giloy juice can help reduce high fever.

Complications of Swine Flu (H1N1 Influenza)

Swine flu is a respiratory tract illness that can cause mild to moderate symptoms. However, in some cases, it can lead to complications such as:

• Pneumonia: This occurs due to a secondary bacterial infection. Swine flu can lead to more serious issues like lung infections and other breathing difficulties.
• Respiratory failure: Studies suggest that the infection can cause severe hypoxemic respiratory failure or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), characterized by fluid build-up in the lungs and multi-organ involvement.
• Seizures: These are generally observed in children, often accompanied by encephalopathy, which is a disease of the brain.

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Flu symptoms can be managed with complementary therapies along with supportive treatment. Even cases that require antiviral therapy can benefit from the following alternative therapies:

• Homeopathy: Studies suggest that Oscillococcinum is a highly diluted homeopathic preparation that some people take regularly over the winter months either to prevent flu or as a treatment for flu symptoms.
• Traditional Chinese Medicine: Research suggests that some plants extensively used in traditional Chinese medicine could prove useful for the management of swine flu. The herbal blend used in this therapy can be the most effective formula, especially if started within the first 24 hours of symptoms.

Swine flu is an upper respiratory tract infection that generally clears up within a week or so. Both adults and children can be affected by it; however, it is more common among teenagers and can be severe in very young children.

Tips for Parents

In children, diarrhea and vomiting are more common than in adults. Infants may present with fever and lethargy without respiratory symptoms. Managing children while they are sick can be quite a task. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Be vigilant, and watch your children closely.
• Make sure to wash your hands while handling the children.
• Wash their hands frequently.
• Avoid crowded areas.
• Avoid direct contact with sick individuals.
• If your child is sick, do not send them to school.
• Get them vaccinated.

Here are 10 more tips to follow if your child has a fever.

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